Music Distribution

Digital music distribution is a fundamental process for artists and labels to make their music available on streaming platforms and online stores around the world. Here I explain how this process works:

  1. Preparation of Material: The first step is to prepare the musical material for distribution. This includes music in digital format (usually audio files in formats such as MP3, WAV, etc.), as well as metadata such as song title, artist name, genre, release date, album art . , etc.
  2. Distributor Choice: Artists and labels can choose to work with a variety of digital distributors to bring their music to market. These distributors act as intermediaries between music creators and streaming platforms and online stores. Some of the best-known distributors include DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, and Believe Digital, among others.
  3. Uploading Music and Metadata: Once the distributor is selected, the music and metadata are uploaded to their online platform. This involves uploading the audio files and filling out the required information about each track, such as title, artist name, album, etc. The album cover and any other related material is also uploaded.
  4. Choice of Platforms and Stores: After uploading music, artists and labels can select which platforms and stores they want their music to be available on. These can include streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, as well as online stores such as the iTunes Store, Amazon Music, Google Play Music, and many others, depending on the distributor.
  5. Review and Approval: Once the music and metadata upload is complete, the distributor will review the information to ensure it meets the standards required by digital distribution platforms. This may include audio quality verification, compliance with metadata requirements, etc.
  6. Distribution and Release: Once the music is approved, the distributor will distribute it to the selected platforms and stores. Depending on each platform’s policies, the time it takes to be available may vary, but will generally be released within one to two weeks.
  7. Monitoring and Royalties: Once the music is online, the distributor will track its performance on the platforms and collect revenue generated from streams and sales. These revenues will be distributed to artists and record labels in the form of royalties, in accordance with the terms of the agreement with the distributor.

In short, digital music distribution is a process that involves uploading music to a distribution platform, selecting target platforms and stores, releasing the music, monitoring its performance, and collecting royalties. This process allows artists and labels to reach global audiences and generate income from their music in the digital age.